Richard Sharpe continues his climb up the ranks and up to his commision as an officer in Sharpe's triumph. He fights in the Famous battle of Assaye saving the life of General Arthur Wellesly, The future Duke of Wellington and going toe to toe with Colonel Pohlman and the French while fighting against Seargant Obidiah Hakeswill.

This episode comes from early in Sharpe’s career. Sharpe finds himself in India under the ultimate command of Arthur Wellesley, later to become the Duke of Wellington. The fighting is fierce and heavy as it always is when Sharpe is at the front. And the action is as fierce and as heavy as it ever will be. Sergeant Sharpe, surrounded and outnumber by the enemy rises to the challenge and saves Wellesley,s life along the way, thus earning a rare battlefield commission to the rank of ensign. Fans of Sharpe’s exploits won’t need encouraging to read this. And for you who haven’t made Sharpe’s acquaintance --- what are you waiting for?